Nebulizer

ABSTRACT

A nebulizer for a fluid, particularly for medical aerosol treatment is proposed. To allow easier operation and confer improved operational reliability a sealed container holding the fluid is already arranged in the nebulizer when it is supplied and the nebulizer is constructed so that the container is opened inside the nebulizer before or during the first use of the nebulizer. Alternatively, or in addition, the nebulizer is constructed so that the container cannot be replaced, and in particular, cannot be removed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a nebulizer for a fluid having apreferably insertable container containing the fluid, which is closedoff, in particular sealed, in the delivered state.

2. Description of Related Art

The starting point for the present invention is a nebulizer in the formof an inhaler sold under the trademark RESPIMAT®, which is illustratedin its basic structure in International Patent Application PublicationWO 91/14468 A1 (corresponding U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,497,944 and 5,662,271)and in a specific embodiment in FIGS. 6 a, 6 b of International PatentApplication Publication WO 97/12687 A1 (corresponding U.S. Pat. Nos.6,726,124 and 6,918,547) and in FIGS. 1 and 2 of the accompanyingdrawings of this application. The nebulizer has, as a reservoir forfluid which is to be atomized, an insertable rigid container with aninner bag containing the fluid and a pressure generator with a drivespring for delivering and atomizing the fluid.

To supplement the disclosure of the present application reference ismade to the complete disclosure of both WO 91/14468 A1 and WO 97/12687A1 and their U.S. patent counterparts indicated above. Generally, thedisclosure contained therein preferably relates to a nebulizer with aspring pressure of 5 to 200 Pa, preferably 10 to 100 MPa on the fluid,with a volume of fluid delivered per stroke of 10 to 50 μl, preferably10 to 20 μl, most preferably about 15 μl. The fluid is converted into anaerosol, the droplets of which have an aerodynamic diameter of up to 20μm, preferably 3 to 10 μm. Furthermore, the disclosure contained thereinpreferably relates to a nebulizer of cylindrical shape of about 9 cm toabout 15 cm and about 2 cm to about 5 cm wide and with a jet spray angleof 20° to 160°, preferably 80° to 100°. These values also apply to thenebulizer according to the teaching of the present invention asparticularly preferred values.

Before being used for the first time, the nebulizer is opened by undoinga lower housing part and the sealed container is inserted in thenebulizer. The container is opened by a delivery tube which is insertedinto the inner bag as the container is put in. Then, the lower housingpart is pushed on again.

By rotating the lower housing part of the nebulizer, the drive springcan be put under tension and fluid can be sucked into a compressionchamber of the pressure generator. As it is tensioned, the container ismoved into the lower housing part in a single movement within thenebulizer, and when tensioned for the first time, it is pierced throughits base by a piercing element in the lower housing part to allow air inor out. After manual operation of a locking element, the fluid in thepressure chamber is put under pressure by the drive spring and isdelivered through a nozzle into a mouthpiece as an aerosol, without theuse of propellant gas.

After opening the nebulizer, the empty container can be replaced by afull one and the nebulizer can then be used again.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A primary object of the present is to provide a nebulizer which iseasier to operate and has improved operational reliability.

The object is achieved by a nebulizer as described below.

A basic idea of the present invention is that, even in its deliveredstate, the nebulizer has a sealed container provided therein and thenebulizer is constructed so that the container is opened inside thenebulizer before or during the first use of the nebulizer. This basicidea is hereinafter referred to as a “pre-installed container” forshort. This makes operation easier as there is no need to open thenebulizer, insert the container and close the nebulizer. Moreover,undesirable soiling or damage to the nebulizer caused by incorrecthandling when inserting the container can thus be ruled out.Accordingly, there is better operational safety as it is impossible forthe container to be wrongly inserted or otherwise misused duringinsertion.

Another aspect of the present invention which can also be implementedindependently involves constructing the nebulizer so that the containeris not replaceable and in particular cannot be removed. This rules outreplacement of the container. This again leads to easier operation andhence improved operational reliability. This also prevents the nebulizerfrom being used or re-used in an undesirable or unauthorized manner.

In particular, the nebulizer cannot be opened and the lower housing partcannot be removed in order to replace the empty container with a fullone in an undesirable manner.

The combination of the pre-installed container and the constructionwhich makes the container non-replaceable results in particularly easyoperation and high operational reliability as the user can only use thenebulizer as a single-use item until the container is empty, andundesirable or unauthorized further use of the nebulizer is prevented bythe fact that the container cannot be replaced.

However, correspondingly, easy operation and improved operationalreliability for the user can also be achieved if the container ispre-installed at the pharmacy, for example, i.e., by trained staff andoptionally, opened at the same time provided that the container is madenon-exchangeable, in particular, the nebulizer cannot be opened by theuser.

Further advantages, features, characteristics and aspects of the presentinvention will become apparent from the following description of somepreferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a non-schematic section through a known nebulizer in theuntensioned state;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic section, rotated through 90° compared with FIG.1, through the known nebulizer in the tensioned state;

FIG. 3 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toa first embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein;

FIG. 4 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG. 3in the activated state or with the container open;

FIG. 5 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toa second embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein;

FIG. 6 shows the broken line encircled detail of FIG. 5 in an enlargedview;

FIG. 7 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG. 5in the activated state or with the container open;

FIG. 8 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toa third embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein;

FIG. 9 shows the broken line encircled detail from FIG. 8 in an enlargedview;

FIG. 10 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG. 8in the activated state or with the container open and with an actuatingmember pushed onto it;

FIG. 11 is a nebulizer according to FIG. 10 without the actuatingmember;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a proposed nebulizeraccording to a fourth embodiment having an actuating member similar tothe third embodiment, but not pushed on;

FIG. 13 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toa fifth embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein;

FIG. 14 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG.13 in the activated state or with the container open;

FIG. 15 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toa sixth embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein;

FIG. 16 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG.15 in the activated state or with the container open;

FIG. 17 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toa seventh embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein;

FIG. 18 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG.17 in the activated state or with the container open;

FIG. 19 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toan eighth embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein;

FIG. 20 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG.19 in the activated, but untensioned state or with the container open;

FIG. 21 is a view of the nebulizer corresponding to FIG. 20, but in thetensioned state;

FIG. 22 is an enlarged view of the detail of FIG. 21 enclosed by thedot-dash line;

FIG. 23 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toa ninth embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein;

FIG. 24 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG.23 in the activated but untensioned state or with the container open;

FIG. 25 is a view of the nebulizer corresponding to FIG. 24, but in thetensioned state;

FIG. 26 is a detailed perspective view of a transportation lock for thecontainer in the nebulizer according to the ninth embodiment in thesecured state;

FIG. 27 is a side view, partly in section, of the transportation lockaccording to FIG. 26 in the secured state;

FIG. 28 is a view of the transportation lock, corresponding to FIG. 27,in the open state;

FIG. 29 is a schematic axial view of the transportation lock in the openstate;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an inner part of the nebulizeraccording to the ninth embodiment;

FIG. 31 is a schematic view of a housing part of the nebulizer accordingto the ninth embodiment;

FIG. 32 is a side view, partly in section, of a transportation lock fora nebulizer according to a tenth embodiment in the secured state;

FIG. 33 is a view of the transportation lock corresponding to FIG. 32,in the opened state;

FIG. 34 is a schematic section through a lower part of a proposednebulizer according to an eleventh embodiment in an intermediate state;

FIG. 35 is a schematic axial section through the nebulizer according toFIG. 34 in the area of overlap of a housing part with an inner part inthe delivered state;

FIG. 36 is a schematic axial section through the nebulizer according toFIG. 34, corresponding to FIG. 35, in the intermediate state;

FIG. 37 is a perspective side view, partly in section, of the housingpart with a container and a transportation lock for the nebulizeraccording to FIG. 34;

FIG. 38 is a perspective side side view, partly in section, of thehousing part of the nebulizer according to FIG. 34 with the inner partpartially pushed in;

FIG. 39 is a perspective side side view, partly in section, of thehousing part of the nebulizer according to FIG. 34, with the inner parttotally pushed in;

FIG. 40 is a perspective side side view, partly in section, of thehousing part of the nebulizer according to FIG. 34 with the containeropened or pierced at the base;

FIG. 41 is a schematic section through a proposed nebulizer according toa twelfth embodiment in the delivered state with a sealed containerincorporated therein; and

FIG. 42 is a schematic section through the nebulizer according to FIG.41 in the activated tensioned state or with the container opened.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the Figures, the same reference numerals have been used for identicalor similar parts, resulting in corresponding or comparable propertiesand advantages, even if the associated description is not repeated.

FIGS. 1 & 2 show a known nebulizer 1 for atomizing a fluid 2,particularly a highly effective pharmaceutical composition or the like,diagrammatically shown in the untensioned state (FIG. 1) and in thetensioned state (FIG. 2). The nebulizer 1 is constructed in particularas a portable inhaler and preferably operates without propellant gas.

When the fluid 2, preferably a liquid, more particularly apharmaceutical composition, is nebulized, an aerosol is formed, whichcan be breathed in or inhaled by a user (not shown). Usually, theinhaling is performed at least once a day, more particularly severaltimes a day, preferably at set intervals, depending on the complain fromwhich the patient is suffering.

The known nebulizer 1 has an insertable and preferably exchangeablecontainer 3 containing the fluid 2. The container thus forms a reservoirfor the fluid 2 which is to be nebulized. Preferably, the container 3contains an amount of fluid 2 or active substance which is sufficient toprovide up to 200 dosage units, for example, i.e. to allow up to 200sprays or applications. A typical container 3, as disclosed inInternational Patent Application Publication WO 96/06011 A1 andcorresponding U.S. Pat. No. 5,833,088, holds a volume of about 2 to 10ml.

The container 3 is substantially cylindrical or cartridge-shaped andonce the nebulizer 1 has been opened the container can be insertedtherein from below and changed if desired. It is preferably of rigidconstruction, the fluid 2, in particular, being held in a collapsiblebag 4 in the container 3.

The nebulizer 1 also has a pressure generator 5 for conveying andnebulizing the fluid 2, particularly in a preset and optionallyadjustable dosage amount. The pressure generator 5 has a holder 6 forthe container 3, an associated drive spring 7, only partly shown, with alocking element 8 which can be manually operated to release it, aconveying tube 9 with a non-return valve 10, a pressure chamber 11 andan expulsion nozzle 12 in the region of a mouthpiece 13. The container 3is fixed in the nebulizer 1 via the holder 6 such that the conveyingtube 9 penetrates into the container 3. The holder 6 may be constructedso that the container 3 is able to be exchanged.

As the drive spring 7 is axially tensioned, the holder 6 with thecontainer 3 and the conveying tube 9 is moved downwards in the drawingsand fluid 2 is sucked out of the container 3 into the pressure chamber11 of the pressure generator 5 through the non-return valve 10.

During the subsequent relaxation after actuation of the locking element8, the fluid 2 in the pressure chamber 11 is put under pressure as theconveying tube 9 with its now closed non-return valve 10 is moved backupwards by the relaxation of the drive spring 7 and now acts as apressing ram. This pressure forces the fluid 2 through the expulsionnozzle 12, whereupon it is nebulized into an aerosol 14, as shown inFIG. 1. The droplet size of the particles for a device of the RESPIMAT®type has already been discussed hereinbefore.

A user (not shown) can inhale the aerosol 14, while an air supply can besucked into the mouthpiece 13 through at least one air supply opening15.

The nebulizer 1 comprises an upper housing part 16 and an inner part 17which is rotatable relative thereto (FIG. 2) having an upper part 17 aand a lower part 17 b (FIG. 1), while an, in particular, manuallyoperable housing part 18 is releasably fixed, particularly fitted ontothe inner part 17, preferably by means of a retaining element 19. Inorder to insert and/or replace the container 3, the housing part 18 canbe detached from the nebulizer 1.

The housing part 18 can be rotated relative to the upper housing part16, carrying with it the part 17 b of the inner part 17 which is lowerdown in the drawings. As a result, the drive spring 7 is tensioned inthe axial direction by means of a gear (not shown) acting on the holder6. During tensioning, the container 3 is moved axially downwards untilthe container 3 assumes an end position as shown in FIG. 2. In thisstate, the drive spring 7 is under tension. During the nebulizingprocess, the container 3 is moved back into its original position by thedrive spring 7. Thus, the container 3 executes a lifting movement duringthe tensioning process and during the atomizing process.

The housing part 18 preferably forms a cap-like lower housing part andfits around or over a lower free end portion of the container 3. As thedrive spring 7 is tensioned, the container 3 moves with its end portion(further) into the housing part 18 or towards the end face thereof,while an axially acting spring 20 arranged in the housing part 18 comesto bear on the base 21 of the container and pierces the container 3 or abase seal thereon with a piercing element 22 when the container makescontact with it for the first time, to allow air in.

The nebulizer 1 comprises a monitoring device 23 which counts theactuations of the nebulizer 1, preferably by detecting the rotation ofthe inner part 17 relative to the upper part 16 of the housing.

The construction and mode of operation of twelve embodiments of aproposed nebulizer 1 will now be described in more detail, referring toFIGS. 3 to 42, but emphasizing only the essential differences from thenebulizer 1 according to FIGS. 1 & 2. The remarks relating to FIGS. 1 &2 thus apply accordingly or in a supplementary capacity, while anydesired combinations of features of the nebulizer 1 according to FIGS. 1& 2 and the nebulizer 1 according to the embodiments described below orwith one another are possible, except to the extent inconsistent withthe improvements described below.

FIGS. 3 & 4 show, in a diagrammatic sectional views, a first embodimentof the proposed nebulizer 1. FIG. 3 shows the delivered state with thecontainer 3 sealed. FIG. 4 shows the activated state, i.e., after thecontainer 3 has been opened.

As proposed, the (still) closed container 3 is already mounted in thenebulizer 1 in its delivered state, as shown in FIG. 3. In the closedstate, in the embodiments shown, an outer seal 24 on the head end of thecontainer 3 and a septum 25, a membrane, a plastic seal or the likeprovided inside the container 3 (only partly shown in the drawings) havenot yet been opened. Moreover, in the closed state, in the embodimentsshown, a vent opening 26 in the base of the container 3, which can beopened by means of the piercing element 22, is sealed, i.e., not yetpierced. It is noted that the container 3 may also have fewer and/ordifferent opening possibilities depending on the particularconstruction.

In all the proposed embodiments, the nebulizer 1 is constructed so thatthe container 3 is or can be opened inside the nebulizer 1 before orduring the first use of the nebulizer 1. The container 3 has alreadybeen opened, in particular, when the seal 24 and the septum 25 or thelike have been opened. This is also referred to hereinafter as theactivated state, for short. The piercing or opening of the vent opening26 may be carried out separately particularly later on when thenebulizer 1 is tensioned (for the first time).

It is proposed that the opening of the container 3 is carried out, inparticular, by means of a delivery element, particularly conveying tube9 or the like, preferably by piercing the container 3 or insertion intothe container 3. By a suitable relative movement, particularly in thelongitudinal direction or direction of lifting of the container 3relative to the conveying tube 9, the conveying tube 9 pierces the seal24 and is inserted through the septum 25 into the interior of thecontainer 3, particularly into the bag 4, whereby the container 3 isopened, i.e., a fluid connection is formed for the fluid 2 to escapefrom the container 3. The container 3 is thus opened at the head end, inparticular.

During the normal tensioning and atomizing strokes the container 3 isthen preferably moved together with the conveying element or conveyingtube 9 by means of the holder 6, whereby the fluid connection producedis maintained and the container 3 is preferably thus constantly open.

The ventilation provided, preferably at the base, as mentioned above byopening the vent opening 26 may be carried out before, during or afterthe above mentioned opening of the container 3, particularly at the headend, depending on the particular embodiment or requirements.

In the first embodiment, the container 3 is preinstalled and the housingpart 18 in the delivered state has not been fully pushed on in the axialdirection. Rather, a securing member 27 is mounted between the housingpart 18 and the upper housing part 16, so that the housing part or lowerpart 18 is pressed far enough away from the upper housing part 16 to beable to hold the (still) sealed container 3 axially away from theconveying tube 9.

In the non-activated distant position the housing part 18 is preferablysecured by means of at least one latching arm 28 mounted on the upperhousing part 16 or inner part 17, so that it cannot be lost and inparticular cannot be released. Preferably, the latching arm 28 engageswith a latching lug 29 in a latching recess 30 in the housing part 18and thereby secures the housing part 18 against total axial removal byinterlocking engagement. However, other constructional solutions arealso possible.

In particular, the housing part or lower part 18 of the nebulizer 1 canno longer be detached from the nebulizer 1 after it has been (partially)axially pushed on for the first time, i.e., the nebulizer 1 cannot beopened any longer, with the result that the container 3 cannot bechanged, i.e., cannot be removed again.

In the first embodiment, the securing member 27 is at leastsubstantially hollow cylindrical and is disposed axially between thehousing part 18 and the upper housing part 16. To activate the nebulizer1, i.e., push the housing part 18 fully on in the axial direction andthereby open the container 3, the securing member 27 first has to beremoved. In the first embodiment, the securing member 27 is constructedin the manner of a banderol or the like, made of plastics, for example,and can be manually opened, removed or destroyed. The securing member 27may alternatively or simultaneously form or constitute a seal of origin.However, other embodiments of the securing member 27 are also possible,e.g., in the form of a security tag or the like.

Once the security member 27 has been removed a user can push the housingpart 18 fully on in the axial direction and thereby bring about theactivated state of the nebulizer 1, i.e., open the container 3 byinserting the conveying element or conveying tube 9. FIG. 4 shows thisactivated state with the housing part 18 pushed fully on. In this pushedon state, the housing part 18 is preferably secured or held again byinterlocking engagement, particularly by the engagement of the latchingarm 28 or latching lug 29 in a corresponding further latching recess 31or by means of some other mechanical securing device.

FIG. 4 shows the nebulizer 1 or container 3 in the activated state, thecontainer 3 is already open and the housing part 18 has been pushedfully on in the axial direction. In order to bring the holder 6 intoengagement with the container 3 at the head end and then be able to movethe container 3 over it for the tensioning and pressing strokes, it maybe necessary to tension the nebulizer 1 for the first time. During thistensioning process, the holder 6 is moved together with the conveyingtube 9 axially towards or into the housing part 18, thus bringing theholder 6 into engagement with the container 3 and preferably alsopressing the container 3 against the piercing element 22 in the regionof the base of the housing part 18 and thereby piercing or opening thevent opening 26. FIG. 4 shows the nebulizer 1 in the relaxed state,i.e., after the first atomization, in particular. The holder 6 isengaged with the container 3 and the conveying tube 9 has been fullyinserted into the container 3.

In the delivered state shown in FIG. 3, i.e., with the container 3(still) closed, the nebulizer 1 can be put into storage. In particular,the closed seal 24 ensures that any solvent contained in the fluid 2cannot escape or in any case can only escape in very tiny amounts.

To prevent unwanted opening of the container 3, particularly the seal 24or the vent opening 26, in the delivered state of the nebulizer 1, thenebulizer 1 preferably has a transportation lock (not shown in the firstembodiment). By frictional, forcible or interlocking engagement, forexample, the transportation lock prevents the container 3 fromundesirably moving axially in the nebulizer 1, e.g., duringtransportation, in the event of accidental dropping of the nebulizer 1or the like, and thereby accidentally coming open. Some possible was ofsecuring the container 3 in transit are described in more detail withreference to other embodiments.

It is noted that the opening of the container 3 is preferably carriedout exclusively by mechanical means and/or manual actuation. However, itis additionally or alternatively possible to open it in other ways,e.g., by chemical, electrical, magnetic, pneumatic, hydraulic or similarmeans.

The proposed nebulizer 1 is activated after the removal of the securingmember 27 and (total) axial pushing on of the housing part 18, and canbe used in the same way as the nebulizer 1 shown in FIGS. 1 & 2. Aspreviously the nebulizer had to be opened by removing the housing part18, putting in the container 3 and then closing the nebulizer 1 bypushing on the housing part 18, the process is now easier to carry outand more reliable in operation. In particular, it prevents the wrongcontainer 3 or used containers 3 from being inserted in the nebulizer 1by the user. Additionally, it ensures that a separately suppliedcontainer 3 is not accidentally opened before being inserted in thenebulizer 1. Additionally, the proposed solution prevents possiblesoiling or damage to the nebulizer 1, e.g., the conveying tube 9 or thelike, when the nebulizer 1 is opened and the container 3 is usedimproperly.

As preferably the container 3 cannot then be removed, especially becausethe nebulizer 1 cannot be opened and the housing part 18 cannot beremoved again, undesirable replacement of the container 3 by the user,and in particular, undesirable interim or subsequent opening of thenebulizer 1 by the user can be prevented.

The other embodiments will now be described in more detail withreference to FIGS. 5 to 35. The relevant explanations are restricted toessential differences from the first embodiment mentioned above and fromthe known nebulizer 1 according to FIGS. 1 & 2. The remarks andexplanations given regarding the first embodiment and the knownnebulizer 1 thus apply accordingly or in supplementary fashion, even ifthey have not been repeated, for reasons of simplicity.

FIGS. 5 to 7 show a second embodiment of the proposed nebulizer 1. FIG.5 shows the nebulizer 1 in the delivered state, i.e., with the container3 inserted therein but still sealed. FIG. 6 shows a magnified detailfrom FIG. 5. FIG. 7 shows the nebulizer 1 in the activated state, i.e.,with the container 3 open.

In the second embodiment the nebulizer 1, preferably the housing member18 is of telescopic construction and can be pushed together or axiallyshortened. In particular, the housing part 18 according to the secondembodiment comprises two axially insertable telescopic parts 32, 33 andan axially insertable base part 34.

FIG. 5 shows the nebulizer 1 or the housing part 18 in thetelescopically extended, non-activated state. In this state, the 2telescopic parts 32, 33 and the base part 34 are preferably securedagainst unwanted axial insertion by means of latching engagements and/ora frictional securing. In particular, the forces required or having tobe overcome for the axial insertion are matched to one another such thatwhen axial pressure is applied to the base part 34, initially, the firsttelescopic part 32 is pushed into the housing part 18, then the secondtelescopic part 33 is pushed into the first telescopic part 32 andfinally the base part 34 is pushed axially into the second telescopicpart 33.

FIG. 7 shows the axially pushed-in activated state. In this state, thetelescopic parts 32, 33 and the base part 34 are preferably axiallysecured in their axial positions by latching engagement, frictionallocking or, in particular, interlocking engagement.

For example, for axially securing the telescopic parts 32, 33 relativeto the housing part 18, corresponding latching lugs 29 engage inlatching recesses 30, 31 in order to obtain the desired securing in theaxially extended position, on the one hand, and in the axially pushed-inposition, on the other hand.

The magnification of a detail of FIG. 5 shown in FIG. 6 illustrates atransportation lock 36 for the nebulizer 1 for axially securing orfixing the container 3 in the delivered state of the nebulizer 1. In theembodiment shown the transportation lock 36 has an encircling retainingbead or at least one retaining arm 37. The retaining bead or retainingarm 37 co-operates with the radially somewhat widened container base 21such that the container 3, in the delivered state, is securely held inan axially defined manner on an annular shoulder or an annular flange 38or some other abutment.

In the delivered state, in the embodiment shown, the base part 34 issecured in the telescopically or axially extended position by at leastone radial projection or encircling bead 35 which engages radiallybehind complementary structures on the telescopic part 33. Thesesecuring forces can only be overcome by the application of sufficientlyforceful axial pressure, for example, as a result of plastic or elasticdeformation and/or radial yielding of the projections/beads 35. Duringthe subsequent axial pushing in of the base part 34 relative to thetelescopic part 33, the piercing element 22 preferably provided on thebase part 34 pierces the vent opening 26 and opens it up. In addition,the base part 34 comes into contact with the container base 21 andforces the container 3 axially out of the transportation lock 36 andpresses it with the container head against or into the holder 6 in thenebulizer 1 (with the nebulizer 1 under tension). Thus, the axialretaining force of the transportation lock 36 is overcome by means ofthe base part 34. In particular, the retaining bead or retaining arm 37is constructed to be sufficiently elastically or plastically deformablein the radial direction for this purpose.

After the base part 34 has been pushed fully into the second telescopicpart 33, the base part 34 is preferably secured again against axialdisplacement or outward movement by radial engagement and/or frictionalengagement with the telescopic part 33.

FIGS. 8 to 11 show a third embodiment of the proposed nebulizer 1. FIG.8 shows the nebulizer 1 in the delivered state with the container 3sealed. FIG. 9 shows a magnified partial view from FIG. 8. FIG. 10 showsthe nebulizer 1 in the activated state, i.e., with the container 3 open.FIG. 11 shows the nebulizer 1 in the activated state as in FIG. 10, butwithout an actuating member 39.

In the second embodiment, in addition to the housing part 18, thenebulizer 1 comprises an actuating member 39 which is preferably in theform of a cap, quiver or cup. The actuating member 39 is only partiallyfitted or pushed onto the housing part 18 in the delivered state andholds the container 3 axially at a distance from the conveying tube 9 inthe nebulizer 1, as shown in FIG. 8. The housing part 18 is accordinglyconstructed to be open at its base.

Optionally, a guide sleeve 40 for radially guiding the container 3 isarranged in the region of the base opening in the housing part 18. Theguide sleeve 40 projects axially beyond the end of the housing part 18,particularly in the delivered state, and can be pushed axially into thehousing part 18 on activation by pushing the actuating member 18 (fully)in the axial direction. Depending on the configuration of the housingpart 18, particularly depending on the degree of radial play with thecontainer 3, the guide sleeve 40 may also be omitted.

The base part 34 with the piercing element 22, as in the secondembodiment, and an insertion part 41 are preferably mounted in theactuation member 39.

The insertion part 41 is constructed in a similar manner to the secondtelescopic part 33 according to the second embodiment. As can be seenfrom the magnified detail show in FIG. 9, the base part 34 and theinsertion member 41 engage radially behind one another, as alreadyexplained with reference to the second embodiment in the relationshipbetween the second telescopic part 33 and the base part 34, andreference is therefore made to the remarks made at that point. Theinsertion member 41 also forms a transportation lock 36, as alreadydescribed in connection with the second embodiment, and reference istherefore made to the explanations given there.

In the delivered state, the base part 34 is held axially by preferablyradial engagement and/or frictional locking by the actuating member 39.The base part 39, in turn, holds the insertion member 41 axially andthis, in turn, axially secures the container 3 via the transportationlock 36.

To activate the actuating member 39, it is pushed fully onto the housingpart 18 in the axial direction until the actuating member 39 receives orencloses the nebulizer 1 and particularly the housing part 18,preferably in the manner of a cap or hat, as shown in FIG. 10.

During the axial pushing on of the actuating member 39, the container 3is, first of all, pushed onto the conveying tube 9, i.e., it is openedby the conveying tube 9.

The further pushing of the actuating member 39 onto the housing part 18causes the insertion member 41 to come into engagement with the housingpart 18, and in particular, latching arms 28 with latching lugs 29engage in corresponding latching recesses 31 in the housing part 18 andthereby secure the insertion member 41 axially to the housing part 18.

In the course of the last part of the axial movement, the base part 34is finally pressed axially into the insertion part 41, as a result ofwhich the piercing element 22 pierces or opens up the vent opening 26and the base part 34 axially released the container 3 from thetransportation lock 36 and—with the nebulizer 1 or pressure generator 5under tension—presses it axially towards or into the holder 6 in orderto bung the holder 6 into engagement with the container 3. This positionis shown in FIG. 10.

In the fully pushed-on state, as shown in FIG. 10, the nebulizer 1 canbe used by means of the actuating member 39. In particular, thenebulizer 1 or its pressure generator 5 can be tensioned in the usualway by rotating the actuating member 39 accordingly.

However, the actuating member 39 is not needed for (further) use of thenebulizer 1. Rather, depending on the design of the nebulizer 1, theactuating member 39 can or must be removed again after the activation(full insertion), and in particular must be pulled away axially.Preferably, the nebulizer 1 is constructed such that the axialdetachment or removal of the actuating member 39 is only possible afterpreviously being pushed fully onto the housing part 18 or afteractivation of the nebulizer 1. A suitable locking or release mechanismmay be provided for this purpose, but is not shown here.

FIG. 12 shows in a schematic exploded view a fourth embodiment of theproposed nebulizer 1. In this alternative embodiment, which is similarto the third embodiment, the actuating member 39 can be used to securethe nebulizer 1 and for this purpose has a preferably clip-likeresilient holding bar or holding clip 42 or the like on the outside. Theactuating member 39, and hence the nebulizer 1, if necessary, can beattached to a belt, waistband, pocket or the like by means of theretaining bar or clip 42.

As in the third embodiment the actuating member 39 can be removed fromthe nebulizer 1 as necessary—once the nebulizer 1 has been activated orthe container 3 has been opened. In particular, the actuating member 39according to the fourth embodiment can be used as necessary to securethe nebulizer 1, as desired. In order to obtain the optimum securing ofthe nebulizer 1, the actuating member 39 is preferably releasablyconnectable to the nebulizer 1 by clamping and/or latching, and inparticular, the nebulizer 1 can be inserted in a preferably at leastsubstantially hollow cylindrical portion of the actuating member 39.

The construction and use of the actuating member 39 as a holder for thenebulizer 1 can also be designed irrespective of the preinstalledcontainer 3, i.e., in general for any type of nebulizer 1. Otherconstructions are then possible, in particular; for example, theactuating member 39 may be merely clamped to the nebulizer 1.

FIGS. 13 & 14 are schematic sections illustrating a fifth embodiment ofthe proposed nebulizer 1. FIG. 13 shows the nebulizer 1 in its deliveredstate (with a preinstalled sealed container 3). FIG. 14 shows thenebulizer 1 in the activated state, i.e., with the container 3 open.

The fifth embodiment is substantially similar to the third embodiment.The nebulizer 1 can be activated by pushing on the actuating member 39which is preferably cap-, quiver- or cup-shaped. Only essentialdifferences between this and the third embodiment will be describedhereinafter.

The insertion member 41 is not provided with latching arms 28, but forfitting onto the housing part 18, it is preferably in the shape of ahat, quiver, cup or cap. In the activated state, the insertion member 41sits around or over an annular portion 43 which is formed in the regionof the free end of the housing part 18, and in particular, surrounds orforms the through-opening for the axial insertion of the container 3. Inparticular, the insertion member 41 is connected to the housing part 18axially in frictional or interlocking engagement in the activated state.

Preferably, the insertion member 41, as in the third embodiment, formsthe smoothest possible outer contour in the activated state or whenconnected to the housing part 18 so as to give the nebulizer 1 apleasant surface feel and ease of handling even with the actuatingmember 39 removed. In accordance with the third embodiment, theactuating member 39 in the fifth embodiment can, in fact, be fullyremoved or axially pulled off after activation as well.

In the fifth embodiment, the nebulizer 1 may comprise the guide sleeve40 according to the third embodiment for radially centring or securingor supporting the container 3 in the delivered state, particularly inorder to be able to prevent unwanted detachment from the transportationlock 36 by tilting the container 3 to one side. However, no guide sleeve40 is provided in the embodiment shown. Instead, the through-opening forthe container 3 is formed at the free axial end of the housing part 18or is provided with slight radial play relative to the container 3, forexample in the region of the annular portion 43, such that there is noneed for a separate component such as the guide sleeve 40.

Another constructional difference between the third embodiment and thefifth embodiment is that, in the fifth embodiment, the base part 34 isheld axially by the actuating member 39, as an alternative or inaddition to the radial clamping in the delivered state, as show in FIG.13. Preferably, for this purpose, the actuating member 39 engagesaxially with a preferably nipple-, pin- or bolt-shaped projection 44 ina corresponding recess in the base of the base part 34, so that the basepart 34 is axially secured to the actuating member 39.

In the activated state, the actuating member 39 can be released from thebase part 34 to allow the actuating member 39 to be removed axially ifnecessary. Preferably, the interlocking or frictional engagement and thematerial forces are designed such that the base part 34 is held by theinsertion member 41 in the pressed-in or retracted piercing positionshown in FIG. 14, even when the actuating member 39 is pulled awayaxially. For example, when the actuating member 39 is pulled awayaxially, the projection 44 is broken off and remains on or in the basepart 34.

The construction of the transportation lock 36 and the release of thecontainer 3 from the transportation lock 36 during activation preferablycorrespond to the third embodiment. Preferably, activation takes placeeven with the nebulizer 1 or pressure generator 5 under tension, so thatwhen the actuating member 39 is pushed fully on in the axial directionthe container 3 is not only opened and pierced at its base by theinsertion of the conveying tube 9 but is also brought into engagement atthe head end with the holder 6.

FIGS. 15 & 16 show diagrammatic sections through a sixth embodiment ofthe proposed nebulizer 1. FIG. 15 shows the nebulizer 1 in the deliveryposition. FIG. 16 shows the nebulizer 1 in the activated position, i.e.,ready for use with the container 3 open.

In the sixth embodiment, in a similar manner to the third embodiment, aninsertion member 41 and a base part 34 are provided which can beinserted for activation into the correspondingly axially open housingpart 18. In contrast to the third embodiment, a separate or additionalactuating member 39 is not needed. Instead, the insertion member 41 isconstructed in the manner of a sleeve and is guided or held by a hollowcylindrical portion 45 which is formed, particularly molded, on thehousing part 18, especially in the delivered state and during the axialinsertion into the nebulizer 1 or the housing part 18. In the pushed-inor activated state, the insertion part 41 together with the base part 34terminates the hollow cylindrical portion 45, thus forming an at leastsubstantially smooth outer contour for the nebulizer 1.

In the sixth embodiment, the base part 34 is held by the insertionmember 41, preferably in a defined manner by radial engagement in anaxial position in which the piercing element 22 is axially spaced fromthe base seal, i.e., the vent opening 26 in the container 3.

To activate it, pressure is applied to the base part 34. As a result,the base part 34 is inserted or pushed axially (further) into theinsertion part 41, as a result of which the piercing element 22 piercesor opens the vent opening 26. At the same time, beforehand ofafterwards, the insertion member 41 with the container 3 essentiallyarranged therein is pushed into the nebulizer 1 or housing part 18, andas a result, the conveying tube 9 is axially inserted in the container 3and the container 3 is thus opened. With the nebulizer 1 or pressuregenerator 5 under tension, the container 3 is finally brought intoengagement with the holder 6 at the head end. In the pushed-in activatedposition shown in FIG. 16, the insertion member 41 and the base part 34are preferably secured in axially latching and/or clamping manner on thehousing part 18 or hollow cylindrical section 45.

To prevent unwanted withdrawal of the insertion member 41 duringinsertion, e.g., from a half-inserted position or from the fullyinserted position, the nebulizer 1 according to the sixth embodimentpreferably comprises a progressive, preferably saw tooth-like latching46 or the like between the housing part 18 and the insertion member 41so that the insertion member 41 is only axially insertable but cannot beaxially withdrawn in the opposite direction. In the embodiment shown,the latching 46 is formed on the outside in a longitudinal directionover a sleeve portion of the insertion member 41. Then, at least onelatching arm 28 arranged on the nebulizer 1, particularly on the housingpart 18 in the hollow cylindrical section 45, engages in the latchingmember 46. FIGS. 15 & 16 show two axially extending latching arms 29which are elastically biased in the radial direction towards theinsertion member 41.

To form a transportation lock to prevent accidental pushing in of theinsertion member 41 in the delivered state of the nebulizer 1, accordingto the sixth embodiment, a securing member 27 is preferably provided inthe form of or comprising a safety tag, as show in FIG. 15. The safetytag is, for example, arranged or inserted radially on the outsidebetween at least one latching arm 28 and a wall of the hollowcylindrical section 45, in order to block at least one latching arm 28or several or all of the latching arms 28 against radially springing outand thereby to prevent the axial movement inwards of the insertionmember 41. Only after the removal, particularly the axial withdrawal ofthe safety tag, are the latching arm or latching arms 28, and hence thelatching member 46, released so that the insertion member 41 is able tobe axially pushed in and the nebulizer 1 thereby activated.

FIGS. 17 & 18 show schematic sections through a seventh embodiment ofthe proposed nebulizer 1. FIG. 17 shows the nebulizer 1 in the deliveredstate. FIG. 18 shows the nebulizer 1 in the activated state.

The seventh embodiment is very similar to the sixth embodiment. However,in the sixth embodiment, no insertion member 41 is provided. Instead, inthe delivered state, the housing part 18 is axially pushed onlypartially onto the nebulizer 1, particularly the inner part 17 or aretaining portion 47 provided thereon. The retaining portion 47 isprovided, for example, in the lower part 17 b of the inner part 17. Theretaining portion 47 is axially extended beyond the end of the innerpart 17 to enable the housing part 18 to be held in a sufficientlyaxially displaced position in the delivered state so that the container3, preinstalled in the housing part 18, is still axially spaced from theconveying tube 9. Preferably, by means of a suitable engagement,latching or similar, the housing part 18 can no longer be axiallywithdrawn or removed once it has been axially (partially) pushed ontothe retaining portion 47.

The housing part 18 in the seventh embodiment holds the base part 34 ina manner corresponding or similar to the way in which the insertionmember 41 holds the base part 34 in the sixth embodiment. Foractivation, with the nebulizer 1 or pressure generator 5 preferablyunder tension, the base part 34 is axially pressed again. As a resultthe housing part 18 is pushed (fully) onto the nebulizer 1 or the innerpart 17 in the axial direction. The container 3 is opened by the axialinsertion of the conveying tube 9. Axially pressing the base part 34into the housing part 18—in particular until the base part 34 is justflush with the axial end of the housing part 18—finally results in thepiercing of the base of the container 3, the release of the container 3from the axial transportation lock 36 at the base, which is formed bythe housing part 18 in the seventh embodiment, and axial insertion ofthe container 3 into the holder 6.

Preferably, between the housing part 18 and the nebulizer 1 or innerpart 17, there is provided a device (not shown) such as the latchingmember 46 in the sixth embodiment having at least one associatedlatching arm 28 or the like, exclusively to enable the housing part 18to be pushed onto the nebulizer 1 but prevent axial withdrawal ormovement in the opposite direction. According to the sixth embodiment, asecuring member 27 (not shown) in the form of or comprising a safety tagor the like may also be provided to prevent the housing part 18 frombeing pushed in, in the delivered state, if the securing member 27 hasnot been removed.

FIG. 19 to 22 show schematic sections through an eighth embodiment ofthe proposed nebulizer 1. FIG. 19 shows the nebulizer 1 in its deliveredstate. FIG. 20 shows the nebulizer 1 in the activated state, i.e. withthe container 3 already open, but with the nebulizer 1 or pressuregenerator 5 not yet under tension. FIG. 21 shows the nebulizer 1 in theactivated and tensioned state. FIG. 22 shows, in a magnified detail,part of FIG. 21 and illustrates the transportation lock 36 in the eighthembodiment.

In the eighth embodiment, in a similar manner to the seventh embodiment,the housing part 18 is axially pushed on only partly in the deliveredstate. In contrast to the seventh embodiment, the housing part 18 in theeighth embodiment is closed at its base, i.e., no separate base part 34is provided. Instead, the piercing element 22 is provided on the insideof the base of the housing part 18, and in the delivered state, thecontainer 3 is held at an axial spacing from the correspondinglyconstructed transportation lock 36 to prevent opening or piercing of thevent opening 26 at the bottom.

In the example shown, the transportation lock 36 is preferably held inaxially movable manner in or by the housing part 18 to allow the base ofthe container 3 to be pierced on activation.

In the embodiment shown, the transportation lock 36 comprises at leastone gripping arm 48, preferably a plurality of gripping arms 48, beforeaxially holding the container 3 in the delivered state by engagingaround its preferably radially expanded base end, as show in FIG. 19 forone gripping arm 48.

As in the seventh embodiment, the eighth embodiment preferably comprisesa device, such as the latching element 46, having at least oneassociated latching aim 28 between the housing part 18 and the nebulizer1 or inner part 17, to allow the housing part 18 only to be pushedaxially on but not axially moved back. The latching element 46 ispreferably formed on the inside of the housing part 18, as indicated inFIGS. 19 to 21. A latching arm 28 with a latching lug 29 engages in thelatching element 46. In contrast to the sixth embodiment, a coarserlatching element 46 is provided here. In addition, it is also possibleto block the axial pushing-on movement by blocking the latching arm 28using a securing member 27 (not shown), particularly in the form of orcomprising a safety tag or the like.

In the eighth embodiment, the activation is preferably carried out inthe untensioned state of the nebulizer 1. After the removal of thesafety tag or the like which is optionally provided, the housing part 18is pushed onto the nebulizer 1, particularly the inner part 17. At thesame time, the conveying tube 9 is axially inserted in the container 3and the container 3 is thus opened.

In the fully pushed-on state, the container 3 is pushed axially furtheror deeper into the housing part 18, so that the piercing element 22 haspierced or opened the vent opening 26, and the transportation lock 36 isreleased.

The transportation lock 36 is opened, in particular, by at least oneaxial arm or projection 49, which is formed on the inner part 17 orpreferably the retaining portion 47. In the embodiment shown a pluralityof axial arms 49 corresponding to the gripper arms 48 are provided,which pivot or swing out the gripper arms 48 when the housing part 18 ispushed on fully and thereby open the transportation lock 36, as shown inFIGS. 20 and 21 and particularly in FIG. 22.

Opening the transportation lock 36 or gripper arms 48 preferablyrequires a force such that first of all the transportation lock 36 ismoved axially towards the base of the housing part 18 and as a resultthe base of the container 3 is opened. This is achieved bycorrespondingly matching the force ratios between the axial securing ofthe transportation lock 36 in or on the housing part 18 and thenecessary opening force for swivelling the gripper arms 48. Only afterthe axial end position of the transportation lock 36 in the housing part18 has been reached are the gripper arms 18 and hence the transportationlock 36 opened in order to release the container 3 axially.

During the subsequent first tensioning, the conveying tube 9 is movedfurther into the container 3 and the holder 6 is brought into engagementwith the container 3. FIG. 21 shows this position. During the subsequentrelease of the nebulizer 1, the container can be axially moved by theholder 6 in the usual way during the nebulizing process, as thetransportation lock 36 remains open and frees the container 3 for axialmovement.

FIG. 23 to 31 show a ninth embodiment of the proposed nebulizer 1. FIG.23 shows the nebulizer 1 in the delivered state. FIG. 24 shows thenebulizer 1 in the activated, but not yet tensioned state. FIG. 25 showsthe nebulizer 1 in the activated and tensioned state. FIG. 26 shows, ina detailed perspective view, the transportation lock 36 with a securingelement mounted on the container 3, such as a cartridge element 50 and abase element 51 formed or mounted on the housing part 18. FIG. 27 showsin side view the cartridge element 50 in the position where it isaxially raised from the base element 51, which is shown partly insection, for clarification. FIG. 28 is a view corresponding to FIG. 27with the cartridge element 50 in the lowered state. FIG. 29 is aschematic axial view of the transportation lock 36 in the opened state.FIG. 30 shows the inner part 17 of the nebulizer 1 in a perspectiveview. FIG. 31 shows the housing part 18 in a schematic perspective view.

The ninth embodiment is basically similar to the eighth embodiment inconstruction and design. The description that follows will mention onlythe essential differences. The remarks made regarding the eighthembodiment and the other embodiments also supplement one another, inparticular.

In the ninth embodiment, the housing part 18 has not been fully pushedon, in the delivered state. The transportation lock 36 fixes thecontainer 3 to the base of the housing part 18 in the delivered state.

In the ninth embodiment, the axial movement is preferably converted onactivation into a rotary movement, in order to open the transportationlock 36 or axially free the container 3. In particular, the freeing orrelease is effected over a diagonal plane. The uncoupling of themovements of axial pushing on and release of the transportation lock 36by a rotary movement allows optimum axial fixing of the container 3 inthe secured state and relatively easy opening of the transportation lock36 in order to release the container 3 axially. This is explained belowwith reference to the embodiment shown.

The cartridge element 50 is connected for rotation with the container 3,particularly formed, stuck or injection molded thereon, and encloses therim or edge of the radially widened container base 21. In the deliveredstate, as shown in FIGS. 23, 26 & 27, the cartridge element 50 with thecontainer 3 is axially and non-rotatably secured to the base element 51,more specifically at an axial spacing from the base element 51, so thatthe piercing element 22 on the base element 51 does not open or piercethe base of the container 3.

Rigid gripper arms 48 are mounted, particularly formed, on the baseelement 51, these arms 48 engaging over radial projections 52 of thecartridge elements 50 in the rotational position specified and therebysecuring the cartridge element 50 against moving axially away from thebase element 51. Locking arms 53 on the base element 51 block radialstops 54 of the cartridge element 50 and thereby prevent rotation of thecartridge element 50 (in the clockwise direction, in the embodimentshown). Rotation in the opposite direction is blocked by a suitabledesign of the gripper arms 48 and/or co-operation with sliding inclines55 on the cartridge element 50 and ramps 56 on the base element 51.

The sliding inclines 55 and ramps 56 extend circumferentially and areinclined in the circumferential direction and matched to one anothersuch that the cartridge element 50 in the (blocked) rotational positionspecified is held at an axial spacing or raised from the base element 51in the delivered state, as can be seen from FIG. 27 in particular.

In order to activate the nebulizer 1 and open the container 3 thehousing part 18 is fully pushed on in the axial direction. The innerpart 17 comprises axial arms or projections 49 shown in FIG. 30, whichin the activated state, or when the housing part 18 is fully pushed on,pivot the blocking arms 53 and thereby open the transportation lock 36or at least undo or unlatch it. The blocking arms 53 or the sections ofthe blocking arms 53 blocking the radial abutments 54 are swung radiallyoutwards and thereby allow the cartridge element 50 to be rotatedrelative to the base element 51.

FIGS. 24, 25, 28, & 29 show the cartridge element 51 already rotatedclockwise. The rotation is carried out by the sliding of the slidinginclines 55 over the ramps 56, particularly during the tensioning of thepressure generator 5 or the pressing down of the container 3 by theholder 6. During this sliding movement, the cartridge element 50 ismoved axially with respect to the base element 51 and the base of thecontainer 3 is pierced by the piercing element 22 on the base element51. Moreover, the rotation axially frees the cartridge element 50 withthe container 3, as the radial projections 52 are moved out underneaththe gripper arms 48 and thereby freed axially. The rotation of thecartridge element 50 for optionally piercing the container 3 and axiallyreleasing it is preferably about 5 to 10°.

Naturally, the transportation lock 36 may also be of a differentconstruction, but with a comparable function; in particular, it shouldallow for the opening or at least undoing or releasing of thetransportation lock 36 by rotating the cartridge element 50 relative tothe base element 51 in the counterclockwise direction.

The principle described above or the specific construction of thetransportation lock 36 according to the ninth embodiment may, ifnecessary, also be implemented in the other embodiments, particularly inthe eighth embodiment.

The base element 51 preferably has retaining arms 57, which engage incorresponding notches 58 on the housing part 18 for attachment to saidhousing part 18. In particular, during assembly, the base element 51 isclipped into the housing part 18, preferably together with the container3 and the cartridge element 50. This allows easy assembly. However, thebase element 51 may also be attached to the housing part 18 in someother way and/or be formed thereby.

In the embodiment shown, the inner part 17 comprises several,particularly three, latching arms 28 distributed over the circumference.The housing part 18 shown by way of example in FIG. 31, however,preferably has only one latching member 46 on the inside, into whichaccordingly only one associated latching arm 28 engages with itslatching lug 29. The function of this engagement has already beendiscussed with reference to the sixth and eighth embodiments, inparticular, and there is therefore no need to go into it again at thispoint.

The other latching arms 28 engage in latching recesses 30, 31 on thehousing part 18, the recesses 30 corresponding to the axial position inthe delivered state and the recesses 31 corresponding to the axiallyfully inserted position of the housing part 18. This results in aparticularly durable securing of the housing part 18 in both positions,to rule out the possibility of the housing part 18 being detached fromthe nebulizer 1 by a user or of unauthorized partial axial removal ofthe housing part 18 from the fully pushed-on position.

In the ninth embodiment, the housing part 18 is preferably mounted innon-rotatable manner on the nebulizer 1 or inner part 17 as in the otherembodiments.

In the ninth embodiment, the activation is preferably carried out withan untensioned nebulizer 1 or pressure generator 5. Accordingly, afteractivation by axial insertion of the housing part 18, a first tensioningis still required in order to bring the holder 6 into engagement withthe container 3, as indicated in FIG. 25.

However, the nebulizer 1 or pressure generator 5 may also already betensioned in the delivered state. This is the case particularly in thefirst, second, third, fifth, sixth and seventh embodiments.

According to a particularly preferred alternative embodiment, thecartridge element 50 and the container 3 are inseparably attached to oneanother. Preferably, the cartridge element 50 serves to code thecontainer 3 or the fluid 2 or drug contained therein. The coding mayvary, for example, depending on the particular active substance and/orthe dosage. The coding by the cartridge element 50 ensures that thecontainer 3 with the cartridge element 50 can only be used inconjunction with a specific nebulizer 1, particularly only with aspecific or matching housing part 18 or base element 51. This is a wayof ensuring that only the correct container 3 or the correct fluid 2 isused with the relevant nebulizer 1.

The coding is, in particular, a corresponding adaptation orcomplementary structure of projections, recesses, undercuts, arrangementand number of arms or the like, to ensure that the container 3 inquestion with the cartridge element 50 can only be inserted in thenebulizer 1 if the coding matches, i.e., if the parts fit.

With regard to the cartridge element 50, it should generally also bepointed out in connection with the ninth embodiment that it does notnecessarily have to be of continuous peripheral construction. Rather, itmay, if necessary, also extend only over part of the circumference ofthe container 3, especially along the container base 21. However, thecontainer 3, instead of the cartridge element 50, may also be providedwith, or may form, some other securing element or the like (not shown)which cooperates in particular only mechanically with the base element51, for example, by a correspondingly suitable design of the containerrim in the region of the container base 21 or the like.

A tenth embodiment of the nebulizer 1 or transportation lock 36 will nowbe explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 32 and 33. FIG. 32corresponds to the view in FIG. 27. FIG. 33 corresponds to the view inFIG. 28.

The tenth embodiment differs from the ninth embodiment essentially onlyin its somewhat simpler construction of the transportation lock 36.Compared with the ninth embodiment, the gripper arms 48 are missing fromthe tenth embodiment. Instead, the blocking arms 53, in the securedstate, additionally, serve to fix or secure the cartridge element 50axially to the base element 51 or housing part 18. In particular, theblocking arms 53 engage with corresponding, preferably angled sections,over the cartridge element 50 or suitable projections of the cartridgeelement 50, such as the radial projections 52, to secure the cartridgeelement 50 against being lifted radially out of the position shown inFIG. 32.

FIG. 33 shows the already unsecured state or the already openedtransportation device 36. The blocking arms 53 are deflected,particularly pivoted radially outwards, in order to release thecartridge element 50 and hence the container 3 axially. Moreover, in theposition shown in FIG. 33, the cartridge element 50 together with thecontainer 3 has already been placed on the base element 51; this is doneby the action of the holder 6 during the tensioning of the nebulizer 1with the transportation lock 36 open. The container 3 has thus beenpierced in the base in this state.

The other explanations and aspects relating to the ninth embodiment alsofundamentally apply accordingly or at least in supplementary fashion tothe tenth embodiment as well.

FIG. 34 to 40 show an eleventh embodiment of the proposed nebulizer 1.

FIG. 34 shows the nebulizer 1—or, more precisely, a lower part of thenebulizer 1—in a schematic, partially transparent side view in anintermediate state. A container 3 is not shown therein. The housing part18 is in the lower or first position, in which the housing part 18 isheld at an axial spacing from the inner part 17 by the upper housingpart 16, so that a container 3 located in the housing part 18 is stillspaced from the conveying element or conveying tube 9, i.e., has not yetbeen opened or pierced.

FIG. 35 shows in axial section the relative rotary position of thehousing part 18 from the inner part 17 in the delivered state. FIG. 36shows the rotary position of the housing part 18 relative to the innerpart 17 in the intermediate state shown in FIG. 34. Here, the housingpart 18 is rotated relative to the inner part 17 or to the deliveredstate. FIG. 37 shows, in a partially sectional side view, the housingpart 18 without the inner part 17, but with the container 3 and atransportation lock 36 holding the container 3 in the housing part 18.FIGS. 38 to 40 show partially sectional side views of the housing part18 in various states.

The eleventh embodiment is basically very similar to the seventh,eighth, ninth and/or tenth embodiments, and therefore reference is madeto the remarks and explanations and illustrations provided in relationthereto, which apply accordingly or in a supplementary capacity. Onlyessential differences or new aspects of the eleventh embodiment will bedescribed in more detail below.

In the delivery position shown in FIG. 35, the housing part 18 isprevented, preferably by interlocking engagement, from being pushedaxially (further) onto the inner part 17 or from moving closer to theupper housing part 16. Only after rotation of the housing part 18relative to the inner part 17—preferably through about 10° to 20°—intothe intermediate position shown in FIGS. 34 & 36 can the (further) axialinsertion or the activation of the nebulizer 1 take place, and only thenis the container 3 opened and fluidically connected, as alreadyexplained in the other embodiments.

The above-mentioned rotary movement of the housing part 18 relative tothe inner part 17 from the delivery position into the intermediateposition is essential to enable the housing part 18 to be axially pushedon afterwards or the nebulizer 1 to be activated. The axial blocking ofthe housing part 18 in the delivery position thus constitutes aprotection against accidental activation of the nebulizer 1. Forexample, this prevents the nebulizer 1 from being accidentally activatedwhen dropped.

During assembly, the housing part 18 together with the container 3located therein, held by the transportation lock 36, is initially pushedonto the inner part 17 or the lower part 17 b of the inner part 17 onlyuntil the housing part 18 is inseparably attached, particularly latchedand secured to the inner part 17. Particularly preferably in thedelivered state latching arms 28 with latching lugs 29 engage in firstlatching recesses 30, so that the housing part 18 can no longer bedetached or pulled away from the inner part 17. In this delivered state,the housing part 18 is then at least initially protected by interlockingengagement from any further axial pushing.

The locking to prevent any further axial pushing in the delivered stateis preferably achieved in the embodiment shown by provision on thehousing part 18 of at least one axial abutment 59, in particular atleast two axial abutments 59 on opposite sides, which butt up against atleast one preferably radial projection 60 on the inner part 17 in thedelivered state. The abutments 59 are most clearly shown in the end viewaccording to FIG. 36. Here, the housing part 13 has already been rotatedinto the intermediate position, so that the projections 60 no longeraxially overlap the abutments 59, but engage in adjacent axial recesses61.

The rotation of the housing part 18 relative to the inner part 17 fromthe delivery position into the intermediate position is possible, interalia, because the latching recesses 30 have a corresponding peripheralextent, so that the latching lugs 29 are able to slide or move along thecircumference in the inner wall of the housing part 18, more preciselyin the intermediate position shown in FIG. 34.

Locking against further axial pushing of the housing part 18 in thedelivered state can also be achieved by other constructional means.

On rotating the housing part 18 from the delivery position into theintermediate position, a certain resistance preferably has to beovercome. The rotary action may be made stiff for this purpose. In theembodiment shown, the housing part 18 moves into the delivery positionand the intermediate position in a virtually latching manner (in thedelivery position the radial projections 59 engage in radial recesses 62and in the intermediate position they engage in the adjacent axialrecesses 61 in the housing part 18), so that a certain latchingresistance has to be overcome when moving from the delivery positioninto the intermediate position, while the housing part 18 and/or innerpart 17 are preferably radially elastically deformed accordingly orcause corresponding portions to yield resiliently.

Preferably, a locking device is also provided, so that the housing part18 cannot be rotated back out of the intermediate position into thedelivery position. In the embodiment shown, on the inner part 17 isprovided at least one preferably radially acting locking latch 63, whichinitially engages in the delivery position in a first axially extendinglatching notch 64 in the housing part 18, and in the intermediateposition, in a second axially extending latching notch 65. During thetransition from the delivery position into the intermediateposition—i.e., from the first latching notch 64 into the second latchingnotch 65—the locking latch 63 can yield radially inwards. In theembodiment shown, two locking latches 63 are provided on opposite sidestogether with associated latching notches 64 & 65. Rotation back fromthe intermediate position into the delivery position can also beprevented by other constructional means.

In the eleventh embodiment, the activation of the nebulizer 1 requires acombination of a rotary and a translatory movement. This combinedmovement results in particularly good securing against accidentalactivation of the nebulizer 1.

Preferably, in the non-activated state, i.e., when the housing part 18has not been pushed on fully—the nebulizer is locked to preventtensioning of the pressure generator, i.e., in particular, to preventrotation of the inner part 17 relative to the upper housing part 16.This is particularly important when the nebulizer 1 is supplied in thedelivered state with the pressure generator 5 not under tension.Accordingly, the inhaler 1 has a barrier, so that the inner part 17 canonly be rotated relative to the upper housing part 16 when the housingpart 18 has been pushed fully on. This rotation barrier which iseffective particularly in the delivered state may also be usedindependently of the eleventh embodiment in the other embodiments inwhich the nebulizer 1 is delivered in the untensioned state.

The direction of rotation when moving the housing part 18 from thedelivery position into the intermediate position preferably extends inthe opposite direction to the direction of rotation when tensioning thepressure generator 5 or nebulizer 1 by rotating the housing part 18 inthe activated state. However, the rotation from the delivery positioninto the intermediate position may alternatively also be carried out inthe direction of tensioning, in order to tension the nebulizer 1 orpressure generator 5 at the same time, if desired.

In the embodiment shown, one of the radial projections 60 preferablyforms a bearing for the counting or monitoring device 23, particularlyfor a threaded spindle 66 of the device 23, shown in FIG. 34. Thespindle 66 is preferably a slider (not shown) for indicating the numberof doses which have already been taken or which are still available totake. By rotating the spindle 66, the slider can be moved along thespindle 66. Preferably, a window 67 (c.f. FIGS. 35 & 36) is formed inthe housing part 18 so that the axial position of the slider can beseen, even if the housing part 18 is not otherwise transparent inconstruction.

The eleventh embodiment has a transportation lock 36 which is ratherdifferent in construction from those in the previous embodiments. Thefunction of the transportation lock 36, however, corresponds to theremarks made previously, and therefore only the essential differences inthe transportation lock 36 will be discussed hereinafter.

FIG. 37 illustrates the preferred structure of the transportation lock36. A base element 51 is inserted in the housing part 18 and held byretaining arms 57. The transportation lock 36 or the base element 51comprises gripper alms 48 which fix the container 3 in thetransportation state shown. In particular, the gripper arms 48 engageradially and/or axially on the container 3 or the transition to its base21 in this state, in order to secure the container 3 by frictional or,more particularly, interlocking engagement. The gripper arms 48 aredistributed around the circumference of the container 3.

The transportation lock 36 also has a preferably annular securingelement 68 which is provided with, in particular, radially extendinglocking elements 69 which prevent the gripper arms 48 from springingradially outwards in the secured state or transportation state shown. Inparticular, the locking elements 69 for this purpose engage onperipheral or lateral (hammer-like) projections 70 on the gripper arms48 radially from the outside.

Preferably, the locking elements 69 are supported radially on theoutside on the inner wall of the housing part 18 (this prevent radialdeflection and correspondingly ensures blocking or locking of thegripper arms 48), by interlocking engagement, in the transportingposition which holds the container 3 by interlocking engagement; and arepreferably axially held on the radial exterior by a peripheral groove 71and an associated peripheral bead 72 on the housing part 18, asindicated in FIG. 38, or in some other way. Thus, the securing element68 is axially fixed or held in the transportation state. However, thesecuring element 68 may also be axially held directly or in some otherway.

The locking elements 69 are preferably connected to the securing element68 by axial bars 73, so as to form between them spaces which are largeenough to enable the gripper arms 48 to yield outwards when thetransportation lock 36 is opened and in the axial direction,particularly with the securing element 68 pushed towards the base of thehousing part 18, as will be described hereinafter.

FIG. 38 shows the housing part 18 with the inner part 17 already partlyinserted, so that axial arms or projections 49 of the inner part 17 arealready abutting on the end faces of the locking elements 69. Startingfrom the intermediate position the container 18 has not yet been pushedfully onto the inner part 17 or nebulizer 1.

FIG. 39 shows the position with the housing part 18 fully pushed on. Theinner part 17 has pushed the securing element 68 out of the securing ortransportation position shown in FIGS. 37 & 38 axially towards the baseof the housing part 18, so that the locking elements 69 no longer securethe gripper arms 48 against axial deflection. During the axialdisplacement the inner part 17 has overcome or cancelled theinterlocking engagement which is preferably provided between the housingpart 18 and the locking elements 69.

Moreover, on reaching the position shown in FIG. 39, the inner part 17has radially deflected the gripper arms 48 by corresponding axialengagement and thereby opened the transportation lock 36. In thisposition, the container 3 is already held at the head end by the holder6, even if the container 6 has possibly not yet fully engaged in theholder 6.

During the subsequent tensioning of the nebulizer 1 or pressuregenerator 5 for the first time, the holder 6 is moved further axially inthe direction of the housing part 18, as a result of which the container3 is latched at its head end to the holder 6, in the desired manner,unless this has already occurred, and the container 3 is moved into itslower axial end position, so that it is opened or pierced at the base bythe piercing element 22, as indicated in FIG. 40.

The nebulizer 1 preferably has an indicator device for indicating theactivated state or the opened state of the transportation lock 36. Inthe embodiment shown this is achieved by the fact that the housing part18 has a lateral inspection window 74 in its base region. A peripheral,preferably differently colored part Of the securing element 68,particularly of a locking element 69, is visible through the inspectionwindow 74 only when the transportation lock 36 is open or the inner part17 is fully engaged.

The transportation lock 36 allows easy assembly, particularly easyinsertion of the container 3 into the housing part 18, very secureholding of the container 3 in the transportation position and easyreliable opening by the inner part 17 or the like.

The transportation lock 36 according to the eleventh embodiment can alsobe used in the other embodiments.

FIGS. 41 & 42 are schematic sections through a twelfth embodiment of theproposed nebulizer 1. FIG. 41 shows the delivered state. FIG. 42 showsthe activated state with the container 3 open.

In contrast to the other embodiments, in the twelfth embodiment, thenebulizer 1 is totally closed, and in particular, there is no need topush in, push on or otherwise mechanically (additionally) actuate anelement, component or the like in order to activate or open thecontainer 3. Instead, the activation of the nebulizer 1 or the openingof the container 3 occurs when the nebulizer 1 or pressure generator 5is tensioned for the first time.

In the twelfth embodiment the container 3 and the conveying device forthe fluid 2 in the nebulizer 1 are preferably matched to one anothersuch that the conveying tube 9 or some other conveying element has notyet pierced the container 3 in the untensioned deliver state of thenebulizer 1. Only during the tensioning is the conveying tube 9 axiallyinserted into the container 3, thereby opening the container 3, and theholder 6 is brought into engagement with the container 3. The advantagefor the user is that he does not have to take any special action inorder to activate the device. Rather, the nebulizer 1 is automaticallyactivated during normal use, i.e., when it is tensioned for the firsttime. The pre-installed container 3 thus results in a particularlysimple and hence reliable means of operation for the user.

Preferably, in the twelfth embodiment, as in most of the otherembodiments, the housing part 18 cannot be detached from the nebulizer1. In particular, the housing part 18 is latched in position and is heldso as to be non-removable, for example, in the pushed-on position by thelatching arms 28 shown in the FIGS. 41 & 42.

Generally, it should be pointed out that, in the proposed nebulizer 1,the container 3 can preferably be inserted, i.e., incorporated in thenebulizer 1. Consequently, the container 3 is preferably a separatecomponent. However, the container 3 may theoretically be formed directlyby the nebulizer 1 or part of the nebulizer 1 or may otherwise beintegrated in the nebulizer 1.

As already mentioned, individual features, aspects and/or principles ofthe embodiments described may also be combined with one another asdesired and may be used particularly in the known nebulizer according toFIGS. 1 & 2 but also in similar or different nebulizers.

Unlike freestanding equipment or the like the proposed nebulizer 1 ispreferably designed to be portable and in particular is a mobile handoperated device.

The proposed solution may, however, be used not only in the nebulizers 1specifically described here but also in other nebulizers or inhalers,e.g., powder inhalers or so-called metered dose inhalers.

Preferably, the fluid 2 is a liquid, as already mentioned, especially anaqueous pharmaceutical formulation. However, it may also be some otherpharmaceutical formulation, a suspension or the like.

According to an alternative embodiment the fluid 2 may also compriseparticles or powder. In this case, instead of the expulsion nozzle 12,some other kind of supply device may be provided, especially anexpulsion opening (not shown) or a supply channel (not shown) forsupplying the fluid to or powder or the like into the mouthpiece 13. Theoptional air supply opening 15 then serves to supply ambient airpreferably in parallel so as to general or allow an airflow with asufficient volume for breathing in or inhaling through the mouthpiece13.

If necessary the fluid 2 may also be atomized by means of a propellantgas.

Preferred ingredients and/or formulations of the preferably medicinalfluid 2 are listed hereinafter. As already stated, these may be aqueousor non-aqueous solutions, mixtures, formulations containing ethanol orfree from solvent, or the like. It is particularly preferable for thefluid 2 to contain:

As pharmaceutically active substances, substance formulations orsubstance mixtures, all inhalable compounds are used such as, forexample, inhalable macromolecules as disclosed in European PatentApplication EP 1 003 478 and corresponding U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication 2003/064032. Preferably, substances, substance formulationsor substance mixtures for treating respiratory complaints andadministered by inhalation are used.

Particularly preferred pharmaceutical compositions, in this context, arethose which are selected from among the anticholinergic, betamimetics,steroids, phosphodiesterase IV inhibitors, LTD4 antagonists and EGFRkinase inhibitors, antiallergics, derivatives of ergot alkaloids,triptans, CGRP antagonists, phosphodiesterase V inhibitors, andcombinations of such active substances, e.g. betamimetics plusanticholinergics or betamimetics plus antiallergics. In the case ofcombinations, preferably at least one of the active substances compriseschemically bound water. Preferably, anticholinergic-containing activesubstances are used, as monopreparations or in the form of combinedpreparations.

The following are specifically mentioned as examples of the activeingredients or the salts thereof:

Anticholinergics which may be used are preferably selected from amongtiotropium bromide, oxitropium bromide, flutropium bromide, ipratropiumbromide, glycopyrronium salts, trospium chloride, tolterodine, tropenol2.2 diphenylpropionate methobromide, scopine 2,2-diphenylpropionatemethobromide, scopine 2-fluoro-2,2-diphenylacetate methobromide,tropenol 2-fluoro-2,2-diphenylacetate methobromide, tropenol3,3′,4,4′-tetrafluorobenzilate methobromide, scopine3,3′,4,4′-tetrafluorobenzilate methobromide, tropenol4,4′-difluorobenzilate methobromide, scopine 4,4′-difluorobenzilatemethobromide, tropenol 3,3′-difluorobenzilate methobromide, scopine3,3′-difluorobenzilate methobromide, tropenol9-hydroxy-fluorene-9-carboxylate methobromide, tropenol9-fluoro-fluorene-9-carboxylate methobromide, scopine9-hydroxy-fluorene-9-carboxylate methobromide, scopine9-fluoro-fluorene-9-carboxylate methobromide, tropenol9-methyl-fluorene-9-carboxylate methobromide, scopine9-methyl-fluorene-9-carboxylate methobromide, cyclopropyltropinebenzilate methobromide, cyclopropyltropine 2,2-diphenylpropionatemethobromide, cyclopropyltropine 9-hydroxy-xanthene-9-carboxylatemethobromide, cyclopropyltropine 9-methyl-fluorene-9-carboxylatemethobromide, cyclopropyltropine 9-methyl-xanthene-9-carboxylatemethobromide, cyclopropyltropine 9-hydroxy-fluorene-9-carboxylatemethobromide, cyclopropyltropine methyl 4,4′-difluorobenzilatemethobromide, tropenol 9-hydroxy-xanthene-9-carboxylate methobromide,scopine 9-hydroxy-xanthene-9-carboxylate methobromide, tropenol9-methyl-xanthene-9-carboxylate methobromide, scopine9-methyl-xanthene-9-carboxylate methobromide tropenol9-ethyl-xanthene-9-carboxylate methobromide, tropenol9-difluoromethyl-xanthene-9-carboxylate methobromide and scopine9-hydroxymethyl-xanthene-9-carboxylate methobromide, optionally in theform of the racemates, enantiomers or diastereomers thereof andoptionally in the form of the solvates and/or hydrates thereof.

Betamimetics which may be used are preferably selected from amongalbuterol, bambuterol, bitolterol, broxaterol, carbuterol, clenbuterol,fenoterol, formoterol, hexoprenaline, ibuterol, indacaterol,isoetharine, isoprenaline, levosalbutamol, mabuterol, meluadrinemetaproterenol, orciprenaline, pirbuterol, procaterol, reproterol,rimiterol, ritodrine, salmeterol, salmefamol, soterenot, sulphonterol,tiaramide, terbutaline, tolubuterol, CHF-1035, HOKU-81, KUL-1248,3-(4-{6-[2-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-hydroxymethyl-phenyl)-ethylamino]-hexyloxy}-butyl)-benzolsulphonamide,5-[2-(5,6-diethyl-indan-2-ylamino)-1-hydroxy-ethyl]-8-hydroxy-1H-quinolin-2-one,4-hydroxy-7-[2-{[2-{[3-(2-phenylethoxy)propyl]sulphonyl}ethyl]-amino}ethyl]-2(3H)-benzothiazolone,1-(2-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-[4-(1-benzimidazolyl)-2-methyl-2-butylamino]ethanol,1-[3-(4-methoxybenzyl-amino)-4-hydroxyphenyl]-2-[4-(1-benzimidazolyl)-2-methyl-2-butylamino]ethanol,1-[2H-5-hydroxy-3-oxo-4H-1,4-benzoxazin-8-yl]-2-[3-(4-N,N-dimethylaminophenyl)-2-methyl-2-propylamino]ethanol,1-[2H-5-hydroxy-3-oxo-4H-1.4-benzoxazin-8-yl]-2-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyl-2-propylamino]ethanol,1-[2H-5-hydroxy-3-oxo-4H-1.4-benzoxazin-8-yl]-2-[3-(4-n-butyloxyphenyl)-2-methyl-2-propylamino]ethanol,1-[2H-5-hydroxy-3-oxo-4H-1.4-benzoxazin-8-yl]-2-{4-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1.2.4-triazol-3-yl]-2-methyl-2-butylamino}ethanol,5-hydroxy-8-(1-hydroxy-2-isopropylaminobutyl)-2H-1,4-benzoxazin-3-(4H)-one,1-(4-amino-3-chloro-5-trifluormethylphenyl)-2-tert.-butylamino)ethanoland1-(4-ethoxycarbonylamino-3-cyano-5-fluorophenyl)-2-(tert.-butylamino)ethanol,optionally in the form of the racemates, enantiomers or diastereomersthereof and optionally in the form of the pharmacologically acceptableacid addition salts, solvates and/or hydrates thereof.

Steroids which may be used are preferably selected from amongprednisolone, prednisone, butixocortpropionate, RPR-106541, flunisolide,beclomethasone, triamcinolone, budesonide, fluticasone, mometasone,ciclesonide, rofleponide, ST-126, dexamethasone, (S)-fluoromethyl6α,9α-difluoro-17α-[(2-furanylcarbonyl)oxy]-11β-hydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxo-androsta-1,4-diene-17β-carbothionate,(S)-(2-oxo-tetrahydro-furan-3S-yl)6α,9α-difluoro-11β-hydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxo-17α-propionyloxy-androsta-1,4-diene-17β-carbothionateand etiprednol-dichloroacetate (BNP-166), optionally in the form of theracemates, enantiomers or diastereomers thereof and optionally in theform of the salts and derivatives thereof, the solvates and/or hydratesthereof.

PDE IV-inhibitors which may be used are preferably selected from amongenprofyllin, theophyllin, roflumilast, ariflo (cilomilast), CP-325,366,BY343, D-4396 (Sch-351591), AWD-12-281 (GW-842470),N-(3,5-dichloro-1-oxo-pyridin-4-yl)-4-difluoromethoxy-3-cyclopropylmethoxybenzamide,NCS-613, pumafentine, (−)p-[(4aR*, 10bS*)-9-ethoxy-1,2,3,4,4a,10b-hexahydro-8-methoxy-2-methylbenzo[s][1,6]naphthyridin-6-yl]-N,N-diisopropylbenzamide,(R)-(+)-1-(4-bromobenzyl)-4-[(3-cyclopentyloxy)-4-methoxyphenyl]-2-pyrrolidone,3-(cyclopentyloxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-1-(4-N′-[N-2-cyano-S-methyl-isothioureido]benzyl)-2-pyrrolidone,cis[4-cyano-4-(3-cyclopentyloxy-4-methoxyphenyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylicacid],2-carbomethoxy-4-cyano-4-(3-cyclopropylmethoxy-4-difluoromethoxyphenyl)cyclohexan-1-one,cis[4-cyano-4-(3-cyclopropylmethoxy-4-difluoromethoxyphenyl)cyclohexan-1-ol],(R)-(+)-ethyl[4-(3-cyclopentyloxy-4-methoxyphenyl)pyrrolidin-2-ylidene]acetate,(S)-(−)-ethyl[4-(3-cyclopentyloxy-4-methoxyphenyl)pyrrolidin-2-ylidene]acetate,CDP840, Bay-198004, D-4418, PD-168787, T-440, T-2585, arofyllin,atizoram, V-11294A, Cl-1018, CDC-801, CDC-3052, D-22888, YM-58997,Z-15370,9-cyclopentyl-5,6-dihydro-7-ethyl-3-(2-thienyl)-9H-pyrazolo[3,4-c]-1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-a]pyridineand9-cyclopentyl-5,6-dihydro-7-ethyl-3-(tert-butyl)-9H-pyrazolo[3,4-c]-1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-a]pyridin,optionally in the form of the racemates, enantiomers or diastereomersthereof and optionally in the form of the pharmacologically acceptableacid addition salts, solvates and/or hydrates thereof.

LTD4-antagonists which may be used are preferably selected from amongmontelukast,1-(((R)-(3-(2-(6,7-difluoro-2-quinolinyl)ethenyl)phenyl)-3-(2-(2-hydroxy-2-propyl)phenyl)thio)methylcyclopropane-aceticacid, 1-(((1(R)-3(3-(2-(2,3-dichlorothieno[3,2-b]pyridin-5-yl)-(E)-ethenyl)phenyl)-3-(2-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)phenyl)propyl)thio)methyl)-cyclopropane-aceticacid, pranlukast, zafirlukast,[2-[[2-(4-tert-butyl-2-thiazolyl)-5-benzofuranyl]oxymethyl]phenyl]aceticacid, MCC-847 (ZD-3523), MN-001, MEN-91507 (LM-1507), VUF-5078,VUF-K-8707 and L-733321, optionally in the form of the racemates,enantiomers or diastereomers thereof, optionally in the form of thepharmacologically acceptable acid addition salts thereof and optionallyin the form of the salts and derivatives thereof, the solvates and/orhydrates thereof.

EGFR-kinase inhibitors which may be used are preferably selected fromamong cetuximab, trastuzumab, ABX-EGF, Mab ICR-62,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)amino]-6-{[4-(morpholin-4-yl)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-7-cyclopropylmethoxy-quinazoline,4-[(R)-(1-phenyl-ethyl)amino]-6-{[4-(morpholin-4-yl)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-7-cyclopentyloxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{[4-((R)-6-methyl-2-oxo-morpholin-4-yl)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-7-[(S)-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yl)oxy]-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-[2-((S)-6-methyl-2-oxo-morpholin-4-yl)-ethoxy]-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)amino]-6-({4-[N-(2-methoxy-ethyl)-N-methyl-amino]-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl}amino)-7-cyclopropylmethoxy-quinazoline,4-[(R)-(1-phenyl-ethyl)amino]-6-({4-[N-(tetrahydropyran-4-yl)-N-methyl-amino]-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl}amino)-7-cyclopropylmethoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)amino]-6-({4-[N-(2-methoxy-ethyl)-N-methyl-amino]-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl}amino)-7-cyclopentyloxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)amino]-6-{[4-(N,N-dimethylamino)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-7-[(R)-(tetrahydrofuran-2-yl)methoxy]-quinazoline,4-[(3-ethynyl-phenyl)amino]-6,7-bis-(2-methoxy-ethoxy)-quinazoline,4-[(R)-(1-phenyl-ethyl)amino]-6-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine,3-cyano-4-[(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)amino]-6-{[4-(N,N-dimethylamino)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-7-ethoxy-quinoline,4-[(R)-(1-phenyl-ethyl)amino]-6-{[4-((R)-6-methyl-2-oxo-morpholin-4-yl)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)amino]-6-{[4-(morpholin-4-yl)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-7-[(tetrahydrofuran-2-yl)methoxy]-quinazoline,4-[(3-ethynyl-phenyl)amino]-6-{[4-(5,5-dimethyl-2-oxo-morpholin-4-yl)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{2-[4-(2-oxo-morpholin-4-yl)-piperidin-1-yl]-ethoxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(trans-4-amino-cyclohexan-1-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(trans-4-methanesulphonylamino-cyclohexan-1-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(tetrahydropyran-3-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{1-[(morpholin-4-yl)carbonyl]-piperidin-4-yloxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(piperidin-3-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-[1-(2-acetylamino-ethyl)-piperidin-4-yloxy]-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(tetrahydropyran-4-yloxy)-7-ethoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{trans-4-[(morpholin-4-yl)carbonylamino]-cyclohexan-1-yloxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{1-[(piperidin-1-yl)carbonyl]-piperidin-4-yloxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(cis-4-{N-[(morpholin-4-yl)carbonyl]-N-methyl-amino}-cyclohexan-1-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(trans-4-ethansulphonylamino-cyclohexan-1-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(1-methanesulphonyl-piperidin-4-yloxy)-7-(2-methoxy-ethoxy)-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-[1-(2-methoxy-acetyl)-piperidin-4-yloxy]-7-(2-methoxy-ethoxy)-quinazoline4-[(3-ethynyl-phenyl)amino]-6-[(tetrahydropyran-4-yloxy]-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(cis-4-{N-[piperidin-1-yl)carbonyl]-N-methyl-amino}-cyclohexan-1-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{cis-4-[(morpholin-4-yl)carbonylamino]-cyclohexan-1-yloxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{1-[2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)ethyl]-piperidin-4-yloxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-ethynyl-phenyl)amino]-6-(1-acetyl-piperidin-4-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-ethynyl-phenyl)amino]-6-(1-methyl-piperidin-4-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-ethynyl-phenyl)amino]-6-(1-methanesulphonyl-piperidin-4-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(1-methyl-piperidin-4-yloxy)-7(2-methoxy-ethoxy)-quinazoline,4-[(3-ethynyl-phenyl)amino]-6-{1-[(morpholin-4-yl)carbonyl]-piperidin-4-yloxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{1-[(N-methyl-N-2-methoxyethyl-amino)carbonyl]-piperidin-4-yloxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(1-ethyl-piperidin-4-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-[cis-4-(N-methanesulphonyl-N-methyl-amino)-cyclohexan-1-yloxy]-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-[cis-4-N-acetyl-N-methyl-amino)-cyclohexan-1-yloxy]-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(trans-4-methylamino-cyclohexan-1-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-[trans-4-(N-methanesulphonyl-N-methyl-amino)-cyclohexan-1-yloxy]-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(trans-4-dimethylamino-cyclohexan-1-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(trans-4-{N-[(morpholin-4-yl)carbonyl]-N-methyl-amino}-cyclohexan-1-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-[2-(2,2-dimethyl-6-oxo-morpholin-4-yl)-ethoxy]-7-[(S)-(tetrahydrofuran-2-yl)methoxy]-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-(1-methanesulphonyl-piperidin-4-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)-amino]-6-(1-cyano-piperidin-4-yloxy)-7-methoxy-quinazoline,and4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)amino]-6-{1-[(2-methoxyethyl)carbonyl]-piperidin-4-yloxy}-7-methoxy-quinazoline,optionally in the form of the racemates, enantiomers or diastereomersthereof, optionally in the form of the pharmacologically acceptable acidaddition salts thereof, the solvates and/or hydrates thereof.

By acid addition salts, salts with pharmacologically acceptable acidswhich the compounds may possibly be capable of forming are meant, forexample, salts selected from among the hydrochloride, hydrobromide,hydriodide, hydrosulphate, hydrophosphate, hydromethanesulphonate,hydronitrate, hydromaleate, hydroacetate, hydrobenzoate, hydrocitrate,hydrofumarate, hydrotartrate, hydrooxalate, hydrosuccinate,hydrobenzoate and hydro-p-toluenesulphonate, preferably hydrochloride,hydrobromide, hydrosulphate, hydrophosphate, hydrofumarate andhydromethanesulphonate.

Examples of antiallergics are: disodium cromoglycate, nedocromil.

Examples of derivatives of the ergot alkaloids are: dihydroergotamine,ergotamine.

For inhalation, it is possible to use pharmaceutical compositions,pharmaceutical formulations and mixtures including the above-mentionedactive substances, as well as the salts, esters and combinations ofthese active substances, salts and esters.

What is claimed is:
 1. Nebuliser for a fluid comprising: a housing, acontainer containing multiple doses of the fluid, said container beingsealed off in a delivery state of the nebulizer as initially disposed inthe housing, a container opening device inside the housing which isadapted to open the sealed container before or during a first use of thenebulizer, and a transportation lock for the sealed container which, inthe delivered state, is in interlocking engagement with the sealedcontainer in a manner preventing the sealed container from movingaxially in the nebulizer in the delivery state and preventing opening ofthe sealed container by the container opening device in the deliverystate prior to full closing of the housing, wherein the transportationlock is releasable during full closing of the housing for enabling theopening of the sealed container, and wherein the container is movable ina stroke action during at least one of conveying of the fluid, pressuregeneration and nebulisation after disengagement of said transportationlock.
 2. Nebulizer according to claim 1, wherein the opening meanscomprises means for opening the container by piercing.
 3. Nebulizeraccording to claims 2, wherein the container is movable together withthe conveying element.
 4. Nebulizer according to claim 3, wherein theopening means is operable for producing piercing in a direction ofmovement of the container.
 5. Nebulizer according to claim 1, whereinthe container is openable at a head end thereof.
 6. Nebulizer accordingto claim 1, further comprising means for venting the container bypiercing at a base thereof inside the nebulizer before or during thefirst use of the nebulizer.
 7. Nebulizer according to claim 1, furthercomprising a manually openable or removable securing member forpreventing opening of the container prior to opening or removal thereof.8. Nebulizer according to claim 7, wherein the securing member is atleast one of a seal of origin, a banderol and a safety tag.
 9. Nebulizeraccording to claim 1, wherein the container openable by at least one ofmechanical action and manual operation.
 10. Nebulizer according to claim1, wherein the housing is formed at least in part of telescopic parts,the container being openable by telescopically pushing together of thetelescopic parts of the housing.
 11. Nebulizer according to claim 1,wherein the housing has a movable actuating part, and wherein thecontainer is openable by pushing in of the movable actuating part. 12.Nebulizer according to claim 11, wherein the movable actuating part isin the shape of a hat, quiver or cup.
 13. Nebulizer according to claim11, wherein the movable actuating part is rotatable from a transportingposition into an intermediate position and can only be pushed in fromthe intermediate position.
 14. Nebulizer according to claim 1, whereinthe container is openable by a two successive motions of a housing partcomprised of at least one of rotary and translatory movements indifferent directions.
 15. Nebulizer according to claim 11, wherein themovable actuating part is removable after the container has been opened.16. Nebulizer according to claim 11, wherein the actuating member isoperable for holding of the nebulizer.
 17. Nebulizer according to claim1, wherein the container occupies a first position in the housing in thesealed delivered state of the container and occupies a different secondposition in the housing at least relative to the opening device in anopened state of the container.
 18. Nebulizer according to claim 17,further comprising a container holder in the housing, and wherein thecontainer is spaced or disengaged from container holder in the firstposition and is held at a head end thereof by the holder in the secondposition.
 19. Nebulizer according to claim 17, wherein the container issecured in the first position, and can only be transferred or moved fromthe first into the second position after a housing part has beenrotated.
 20. Nebulizer according to claim 1, wherein releasing of thetransportation lock converts a linear movement into a rotary movement tofree the container for a subsequent stroke action during at least one ofatomization of fluid, opening of the container and venting of thecontainer.
 21. Nebulizer according to claim 1, wherein thetransportation lock comprises a cartridge element.
 22. Nebulizeraccording to claim 1, wherein the transportation lock is arranged in ahousing part.
 23. Nebulizer according to claim 1, further comprising apurely mechanical means for producing nebulization of the contents ofthe container.
 24. Nebulizer according to claim 1, wherein the nebulizeris constructed as an inhaler.
 25. Nebulizer according to claim 1,wherein the transportation lock for the container acts on the base ofthe container in the sealed delivered state.
 26. Nebuliser according toclaim 18, wherein the transportation lock acts on the base of thecontainer in the sealed delivered state and wherein the transportationlock holds the container in the first position.
 27. Nebuliser accordingto claim 25, wherein the transportation lock after unlocking converts alinear movement into a rotary movement in order to free the containerfor a subsequent stroke action during the atomisation of fluid and/or toallow opening and/or venting of the container.
 28. Nebuliser accordingto claim 25, wherein the transportation lock comprises a securingelement comprising a cartridge element, which is non-rotationallymounted on the container.
 29. Nebulizer according to claim 25, whereinthe transportation lock is arranged in a housing part of the nebuliser.30. Nebulizer according to claim 1, wherein the nebulising is carriedout purely mechanically without the use of propellant gas by springforce.
 31. Nebulizer according to claim 1, wherein the nebuliser isconstructed as an inhaler for medical aerosol treatment.
 32. Nebuliseraccording to claim 1, wherein the transportation locks comprises gripperarms for securing the container in the delivery state.
 33. Nebuliseraccording to claim 32, wherein the girpper arms are distributed aroundthe circumference of the container.
 34. Nebuliser according to claim 32,wherein the gripper arms are flexible or deflectable to open thetransportation lock.
 35. Nebuliser according to claim 34, wherein aninner part is provided for deflecting the gripper arms by axialengagement.
 36. Nebuliser according to claim 34, wherein the gripperarms are secured in the delivery state against flexing or deflection.37. Nebuliser according to claim 36, wherein a securing element isprovided which secures the transportaion lock against opening, thesecuring element being axially moveable to open the transportation lock.38. Nebuliser according to claim 1, wherein the transportation lock isarranged completely inside the housing.
 39. Nebuliser according to claim1, wherein the transportation lock engages on the base of the containeror on a transition of the container to a base of the container. 40.Nebuliser according to claim 1, wherein the transportation lock actsdirectly on the container.
 41. Nebuliser according to claim 1, whereinthe container is moveable in the stroke action relative to the housing.42. Nebuliser according to claim 1, wherein the container is moveable inthe stroke action inside the housing.
 43. Nebuliser according to claim1, wherein the housing comprises a housing part and wherein thetransportation lock is releasable by axially pushing the housing partonto the nebuliser.
 44. Nebuliser according to claim 1, wherein thehousing comprises a housing part and wherein a removable securing memberis provided for preventing, in the delivery state, axially pushing ofthe housing part to open the container.
 45. Nebuliser for a fluidcomprising: a housing that is partially closed in a delivery state ofthe nebuliser, a container containing multiple doses of the fluid, saidcontainer being sealed off in the delivery state and disposed in thehousing, a container opening device inside the housing which is adaptedto open the sealed container before or during a first use of thenebuliser, and a transportation lock for the sealed container which, inthe delivery state, is in interlocking engagement with the sealedcontainer in a manner preventing the sealed container from movingaxially in the nebuliser in the delivery state and preventing opening ofthe sealed container by the container opening device in the deliveredstate, wherein the transportation lock is releasable by completelyclosing the housing.
 46. Nebuliser according to claim 45, wherein thecontainer is movable in a stroke action, during at least one ofconveying of the fluid, pressure generation and nebulisation afterdisengagement of said transportation lock.
 47. Nebuliser according toclaim 45, wherein the transportation lock comprises gripper arms forsecuring the container in the delivered state.
 48. Nebuliser accordingto claim 47, wherein the girpper arms are distributed around thecircumference of the container.
 49. Nebuliser according to claim 47,wherein the gripper arms are flexibly deflectable to open thetransportation lock.
 50. Nebuliser according to claim 49, wherein aninner part is provided for deflecting the gripper arms by axialengagement.
 51. Nebuliser according to claim 49, wherein the gripperarms are secured in the delivered state against flexing or deflection.52. Nebuliser according to claim 51, wherein a securing element isprovided which secures the transportation lock against opening, thesecuring element being axially moveable to open the transportation lock.53. Nebuliser according to claim 45, wherein the transportation lock isarranged completely inside the housing.
 54. Nebuliser according to claim45, wherein the transportation lock engages on a base or a transition ofthe container to the base of the container.
 55. Nebuliser according toclaim 45, wherein the transportation lock acts directly on thecontainer.
 56. Nebuliser according to claim 45, wherein the container ismoveable in a stroke action relative to the housing.
 57. Nebuliseraccording to claim 45, wherein the container is moveable in a strokeaction inside the housing.
 58. Nebuliser according to claim 45, whereinthe housing comprises a housing part and wherein the transportation lockis releasable by axially pushing the housing part onto the nebuliser.59. Nebuliser according to claim 45, wherein the housing comprises ahousing part and wherein a removable securing member is provided forpreventing, in the delivery state, axial pushing of the housing part toopen the container.
 60. Nebuliser for a fluid comprising: a housing thatis partially closed in a delivery state of the nebuliser, a containercontaining multiple doses of the fluid, said container being sealed offin the delivery state and disposed in the housing, a container openingdevice inside the housing which is adapted to open the sealed containerbefore or during a first use of the nebuliser, and a removable securingmember for preventing, in the delivery state, complete closing of thehousing and opening the container.
 61. Nebuliser according to claim 60,wherein the housing comprises a housing part, wherein the securingmember prevents, in the delivered state, axially pushing of the housingpart onto the nebuliser to open the container.
 62. Nebuliser accordingto claim 60, wherein the nebuliser comprises a transportation lock forthe sealed container which, in the delivery state, is in interlockingengagement with the sealed container in a manner preventing the sealedcontainer from moving axially in the nebuliser.
 63. Nebuliser accordingto claim 62, wherein the container is movable in a stroke action, duringat least one of conveying of the fluid, pressure generation andnebulisation after disengagement of said transportation lock. 64.Nebuliser according to claim 62, wherein the transportation lock isreleasable by completely closing the housing.
 65. Nebuliser according toclaim 62, wherein the transportation locks comprises gripper arms forsecuring the container in the delivery state.
 66. Nebuliser according toclaim 65, wherein the girpper arms are distributed around thecircumference of the container.
 67. Nebuliser according to claim 65,wherein the gripper arms are flexible or deflectable to open thetransportation lock.
 68. Nebuliser according to claim 65, wherein aninner part is provided for deflecting the gripper arms by axialengagement.
 69. Nebuliser according to claim 65, wherein the gripperarms are secured in the delivery state against flexing or deflection.70. Nebuliser according to claim 62, wherein a securing element isprovided which secures the transportation lock against opening, thesecuring element being axially moveable to open the transportation lock.71. Nebuliser according to claim 62 wherein the transportation lock isarranged completely inside the housing.
 72. Nebuliser according to claim60, wherein the transportation lock engages on the base of the containeror on a transition of the container to a base of the container. 73.Nebuliser according to claim 62, wherein the transportation lock actsdirectly on the container.
 74. Nebuliser according to claim 60, whereina securing element is provided which secures the transportation lockagainst opening, the securing element being one of a seal of origin, abanderol and a safety tag.